Arsenal are considering offering a contract to 38-year-old defender Mario Yepes, according to reports in Colombia.

The Gunners are in need of defensive reinforcements after failing to sign a replacement for Thomas Vermaelen during the transfer window, and Arsene Wenger has now turned his attention to Yepes.

According to reports, Wenger is said to be a long-term fan of the experienced centre back and could offer him a short-term contract to provide cover for Laurent Koscielny, Per Mertesacker and youngster Calum Chambers.

Arsene Wenger could still add to his defensive options (Picture: Getty)

Yepes is a free agent after leaving Italian side Atalanta at the end of last season, and his agent told reporters last month that he is in England looking to sign for a Premier League team.

A 6’1″ centre back, Yepes has made almost 600 professional appearances to date.